Location: Huntington-Ashland, WV | Metro: Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH HUD Metro FMR Area
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $930 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,090 | $104,401 | 1.04% | B |
| 3BR | $1,390 | $177,314 | 0.78% | D |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $275,123 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $1,752 | $386,537 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 25705, located in Huntington, WV, reveals several key points that impact investment decisions. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25705 is set at $1030 for fiscal year 2024. In contrast, the Census ACS reports a market rent of $972, indicating that voucher tenants can generally cashflow at the FMR level, albeit marginally.
To understand the broader real estate context, consider the median home value in ZIP 25705, which stands at $172,184. This figure allows us to calculate a rent-to-price ratio, providing insight into the relative affordability of renting versus buying. Using the HUD FMR of $1030, the annual rent would be approximately $12,360, leading to a rent-to-price ratio of roughly 7.18%. This suggests that rental properties in the area are relatively affordable compared to purchasing, making it an attractive option for investors looking to capitalize on this dynamic.
The data also shows that there is no available information on the median Days on Market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that experienced price cuts. However, given the marginal cashflow potential and the relatively low median home value, the rent-vs-buy dynamics favor rental investments over home purchases, particularly for those seeking stable income through Section 8 vouchers.
The strongest investor angle in this market is stability. With a consistent HUD FMR that slightly exceeds the market rent, investors can rely on steady cashflow from voucher tenants, ensuring predictable returns without the volatility often associated with fluctuating market rents.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.